Micro lathe user coments advice opinions

Mark Behnke

Mark Behnke

Well-Known Member
I've been considering a Lathe or mill purchase but have no experience with them. I read what I can and have tried to become familiar with basic types sizes etc.
Pretty much overwhelmed .

Went to a garage sale and was the first one there, and this little lathe is on a table. Looked almost like a toy but on closer look seems to be OK, the guy wanted $75.00 and wanted it gone, so $35.00 and it's mine now.

Went home and checked it out: Taig Micro Lathe II model #4500:D

Now what?, lots of accessories for these. Any must have parts, basic tools, I don't know where to start.

Advice, instruction, opinions, stories, comments, warnings :unsure:

Thanks
Mark
 
What an odd looking tail stock on that lathe. looks like it is adjustable in the x direction. That's kind of neat. You would be able to do taper work well with that setup. Just be sure the tailstock is on center for drilling and supporting work that you want to be the same diameter for the whole length. If you have any questions about using it, shoot me a pm.
 
Also just noticed the flathead screwdriver stop. That's great lol.

Some key things to remember for a new lathe operator are as follows:

First and formost, don't where loose clothing or let long hair down. Wear clothing that fits and stay away from the chuck. Getting caught up in that is something you don't want to happen. this is a small lathe, but on bigger lathes it could kill you. Serious.

Second, DO NOT LEAVE THE CHUCK KEY IN THE CHUCK. Common mistake of beginners, and not something you want to become a habit. If you tun the spindle on with it resting in the chuck, it could throw it violently towards you or someone else, not to mention becomming lodged against the machine and possibly ruining the chuck or the ways.

Third, (I don't know if yours has forward and reverse) but be sure you are turning forward. The chuck will spin counter clockwise if you are looking directly towards it form the tail stock. If you are turning reverse, or clockwise, the machine will not cut unless the tool is postioned on the back side. Yours isn't judging from the picture.

Just start out with light cuts and play around with it. Remember to be safe!
 
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